"Many Linux distributions have taken the path of easy GUI-based installation, in order to appeal to a broader mix of users. But not Arch Linux, which emphasises simplicity of technical complexity over general usability. Richard Hillesley explains."

Uhm, if you read the man page, you'll note there are long options like --sync --refresh and --sysupgrade.

When in doubt, use the man page!

I read various articles on the distro and IIRC even the Arch manual/wiki, with no luck, and I don't remember seeing anything about long options. If I do try the distro again in the future though, I'll keep that in mind. Thanks.